John Deehan

The detective who led the enquiry into the killing of Stephen Whitehead called the assault "completely unprovoked and cowardly".

Speaking after Aaron Jenkins was today found guilty of murder, Det. Chief Insp. Pete Simm, said: “This was a completely unprovoked and cowardly assault, carried out in such a way that Stephen had no opportunity to defend himself. The level of violence used was truly shocking."

Aaron Jenkins.

Jenkins (20), of Devonshire Road, Burnley, was convicted following a week-long trial at Preston Crown Court. He will be sentenced on March 3rd.

Det. Chief Insp. Simm: “Our thoughts remain with the family and friends of Stephen Whitehead at this difficult time and hopefully this conviction and sentence can go some way to helping them start to re-build their lives.”